Cookie, pretzel businesses close at The Empire Mall

Cookie and pretzel businesses are the latest closings to hit The Empire Mall.

Great American Cookie Company and Pretzelmaker, which shared a space, closed recently in the Sears wing.

The mall is in the process of working to fill the space.

“The retail landscape is always evolving and changing,” said Kirsten Schaffer, director of marketing and business development.

“This change in the marketplace allows us to bring in new, relevant and fresh dining options, including a local food entrepreneur looking to open a new concept or expand an existing brand to take advantage of Empire Mall’s popularity.”

The closing comes within days of Sears announcing it plans to pull out of the mall later this year.